Q&A with Georgie Horjus
After being crowned Suncorp Super Netball champions, their third premiership in four years, the Adelaide Thunderbirds are on top of the world.
At just 24 years old, co-captain and Kangaroo Island local, Georgie Horjus is preparing to represent Australia in July’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
Fresh from the Thunderbirds’ win, we caught up with Georgie to find out why she loves the game and what inspired her to play in the first place.
When did you first fall in love with sport?
I started playing when I was five but I would’ve started earlier if I could. I was always hanging around the netball courts, watching training and wanting to join in. I used to sleep in my netball dress so excited for the next day!
Who were your sporting role models growing up?
My mum. I always loved watching her play. She played A grade and was a goalie also. I idolised Erin Bell, Nat Medhurst and Steph Fretwell, all shorter GAs. To get the chance to meet them now and work with Erin is really special as well as Steph sending a video when I was presented my Diamonds dress.
What would you say to someone who wants to take up netball?
It’s so fun, it’s a great team sport. It suits so many people as different positions suit people and their skills. With so many levels of teams you can play it to make friends or competitively. Some of my lifelong, closest friends are from netball.
What did it mean to lift the trophy at the end of the day?
It’s so special, something you dream about. It’s amazing getting to share something you all want with your teammates, you’ve all worked so hard to win. It’s the best feeling!
What’s special about this group of players?
We get along so well, we all live by our team values, and all want the same thing. We are great mates off the court and share some great memories together. We can all give honest feedback and know it’s coming from a good place, at the end of the day we all want the same thing to lift that trophy at the end of the season.
You’ve been selected for the Diamonds squad again, what does it mean to represent Australia?
A dream come true, still pretty surreal. Something I’ve wanted to do since I was a little girl and still pinch myself when I get in the Diamonds dress. Singing the anthem for the first time I still remember, it’s something that still gives me shivers.
What’s the best thing you’ve been able to do because of netball?
Make lifelong friends, grow so much in my leadership. I’m a quiet person but it’s helped me get out of my comfort zone and speak up.
Do you have any rituals before a game?
No, just a nice chill day, morning walk and coffee. If I’m home, I spend the day with my family and little nieces and if we’re playing away, I get out and hang with the girls for the day.
Favourite thing to do in your hometown?
Spend the day at the beach with family and friends. Or spending the day at the sports club watching netball and football.
Favourite holiday spot in SA?
Kangaroo Island, obviously – it’s where I came from, in particular Stokes Bay or Snelling beach.